Keywords

Surgical simulator, capsulorhexis procedure, cataract
surgery.

Abstract

This paper describes a technique for simulating the
capsulorhexis procedure during cataract surgery. The
continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis technique can be a
difficult procedure for beginning ophthalmology
surgeons. In the initial phase of tearing the tissue, the tear
vector is tangential to the circumference of the tear circle.
However, without the proper re-grasping of the flap of
torn tissue close to the tear point, the tear vector angle
quickly runs downhill possibly causing severe damage to
the tissue. Novice surgeons tend to try to complete the
capsulorhexis without the time consuming re-grasping of
the tissue flap. Other factors such as anterior bowing of
the lens diaphragm, patient age, and shallow anterior
chambers add to the problematic nature of the procedure.
Our prototype capsulorhexis simulator models these
various tear problems and anomalies to provide a training
and learning environment without the dangers of using
live patients.